will have no say in choosing pope benedict's successor. it was to be one of cardinal o'brien's last official duties before a scheduled retirement next month. but in a statement he said... >> the holy father has now decided that my resignation will take effect today. looking back over my years of ministry for any good i have been able to do, i thank god. for any failures, i apologize to all whom i have offended. >> reporter: he does, however, remain a cardinal. it's understood he could still take part in the election of a new pope and it's his choice not to do so. in scotland cardinal o'brien is a divisive figure though many are sad to see him go. >> no one would have wished these circumstances. everyone will feel great sadness for what's arisen today. i feel that we should reflect for a minute just on the massive contribution that he has made to his church and his country over almost 50 years. >> reporter: others found him difficult not least for his uncompromising opposition to gay marriage. >> what we really hope in scottland is that the